Attractions

Things to do in Puerto Vallarta

Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments Puerto Vallarta is in the ideal location for you to enjoy a wide variety of tourist attractions around the city. Situated near shopping destinations and vibrant nightlife, you can experience popular sites to make your visit unforgettable. If you need any suggestions about things to do, our concierge will provide suggestions or make arrangements so that you can see the most interesting places across Puerto Vallarta.

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Marina VallartaDistance:6.7kms from Hotel

Located mere minutes away from Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, this residential area contains one of the biggest Latin American marine piers. When you walk down its promenade, you will discover art galleries, cafes and restaurants. You can also see luxury boats, yachts and enjoy an 18-hole golf course.

Read MoreClose

Located mere minutes away from Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, this residential area contains one of the biggest Latin American marine piers. When you walk down its promenade, you will discover art galleries, cafes and restaurants. You can also see luxury boats, yachts and enjoy an 18-hole golf course.

Read MoreClose

El Malecon (Seaside Boardwalk)Distance:2.7kms from Hotel

Travel down a paved walkway along the shore of downtown Puerto Vallarta to enjoy shopping, restaurants and the local Mexican culture. In 2011, the Malecon was completely remodeled is now exclusively for pedestrians. A safe, fun and interesting family excursion awaits you in downtown Vallarta, where you can explore many different attractions and sculptures as well.

Read MoreClose

Travel down a paved walkway along the shore of downtown Puerto Vallarta to enjoy shopping, restaurants and the local Mexican culture. In 2011, the Malecon was completely remodeled is now exclusively for pedestrians. A safe, fun and interesting family excursion awaits you in downtown Vallarta, where you can explore many different attractions and sculptures as well.

Read MoreClose

Muelle de Playa Los MuertosDistance:3.2kms from Hotel

Sand lovers will delight in the most popular, best known and the most visited beach in Puerto Vallarta. Now that the pier is finished, this beach is especially popular. Find it south of the Malecon and the Cuale River, between the river and Venustiano Carranza (where you can stop at Daiquiri Dick's) in what is called Romantic Zone.

Read MoreClose

Sand lovers will delight in the most popular, best known and the most visited beach in Puerto Vallarta. Now that the pier is finished, this beach is especially popular. Find it south of the Malecon and the Cuale River, between the river and Venustiano Carranza (where you can stop at Daiquiri Dick's) in what is called Romantic Zone.

Read MoreClose

Los ArcosDistance:6.3kms from Hotel

Almost anywhere in town and just south of the city, you can see some small islands by the edge of the sea in the South Zone. These are what are locally know as "Los Arcos de Mismaloya," the Arches of Mismaloya. Nowadays, they are a very popular day trip destination. Snorkelers, tourists, tour operators and scuba divers regularly visit this place day in and day out. It's very beautiful as a scenic photo-op. Also, it is quite impressive for its natural biodiversity both above and below water. These little islands have tunnels that go through them, which accounts for the name: the arches.

Read MoreClose

Almost anywhere in town and just south of the city, you can see some small islands by the edge of the sea in the South Zone. These are what are locally know as "Los Arcos de Mismaloya," the Arches of Mismaloya. Nowadays, they are a very popular day trip destination. Snorkelers, tourists, tour operators and scuba divers regularly visit this place day in and day out. It's very beautiful as a scenic photo-op. Also, it is quite impressive for its natural biodiversity both above and below water. These little islands have tunnels that go through them, which accounts for the name: the arches.

Read MoreClose

vallarta botanical gardensDistance:26.4kms from Hotel

Although this attraction is a bit out of town, south of Boca de Tomatlán and Mismaloya on the way to El Tuito, it’s worth the trip to experience these botanical gardens. There are a variety of routes with varying degrees of difficulty you can walk. Plus, you’ll see an orchid garden, enjoy a dip in the small river that runs through the property and, if you wish, visit one of the best restaurants in the area (including Puerto Vallarta) at Hacienda de Oro.

Read MoreClose

Although this attraction is a bit out of town, south of Boca de Tomatlán and Mismaloya on the way to El Tuito, it’s worth the trip to experience these botanical gardens. There are a variety of routes with varying degrees of difficulty you can walk. Plus, you’ll see an orchid garden, enjoy a dip in the small river that runs through the property and, if you wish, visit one of the best restaurants in the area (including Puerto Vallarta) at Hacienda de Oro.

Read MoreClose

PilitasDistance:3.2kms from Hotel

Las Pilitas (Baptismal Font) is a sea-level rock formation that can be found on the south end of Old Vallarta's Los Muertos Beach, near the base of El Pulpito. This location was where the "El Caballito de Mar" sculpture (The Seahorse) had originally been located. After disappearing in a storm, a bigger replica was made by the artist and put on the Malecon. The original statue has since been recovered and now stands at Las Pilitas, too. A side street on Olas Altas (Old Vallarta) is named after this natural landmark.

Read MoreClose

Las Pilitas (Baptismal Font) is a sea-level rock formation that can be found on the south end of Old Vallarta's Los Muertos Beach, near the base of El Pulpito. This location was where the "El Caballito de Mar" sculpture (The Seahorse) had originally been located. After disappearing in a storm, a bigger replica was made by the artist and put on the Malecon. The original statue has since been recovered and now stands at Las Pilitas, too. A side street on Olas Altas (Old Vallarta) is named after this natural landmark.

Read MoreClose

Plaza de ArmasDistance:1.7kms from Hotel

The Plaza de la Presidencia or Plaza de Armas is the city's main plaza, the official center of political and cultural activities in Puerto Vallarta. This is where you can enjoy public concerts at the bandstand (kiosko) or at the amphitheater across the street by the Arches, the amphitheater and the malecon. There is a large, two-storey building that houses government offices (and the Vallarta tourist office), plus a large outdoor terrace with a fountain. Also, you'll see a mural painted by Manuel Lepe, one of the most famous local artists. This plaza can be found between the Puerto Vallarta Malecon at Los Arcos Amphitheatre and the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.

Read MoreClose

The Plaza de la Presidencia or Plaza de Armas is the city's main plaza, the official center of political and cultural activities in Puerto Vallarta. This is where you can enjoy public concerts at the bandstand (kiosko) or at the amphitheater across the street by the Arches, the amphitheater and the malecon. There is a large, two-storey building that houses government offices (and the Vallarta tourist office), plus a large outdoor terrace with a fountain. Also, you'll see a mural painted by Manuel Lepe, one of the most famous local artists. This plaza can be found between the Puerto Vallarta Malecon at Los Arcos Amphitheatre and the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.

Read MoreClose

Aquaventuras Park VallartaDistance:20kms from Hotel

You'll discover Aquaventuras Park on the way in to Nuevo Vallarta. It's a great place to chill out, float around in fresh water and do nothing except relax. The family can zip down the water slides, play in the park or just enjoy the sun. There are ten waterslides of various styles (more for adults than children) and a special area for kids, where the water is not that deep and the games more low-key. Feel free to enjoy the sea lion show or just swim with the dolphins.

Read MoreClose

You'll discover Aquaventuras Park on the way in to Nuevo Vallarta. It's a great place to chill out, float around in fresh water and do nothing except relax. The family can zip down the water slides, play in the park or just enjoy the sun. There are ten waterslides of various styles (more for adults than children) and a special area for kids, where the water is not that deep and the games more low-key. Feel free to enjoy the sea lion show or just swim with the dolphins.

Read MoreClose

Isla Cuale Flea MarketDistance:2.3kms from Hotel

This large flea market is located by the northern shore of the Cuale River, flowing through downtown Puerto Vallarta. It's quite easy to find, too, if you are on the main square. Just walk down Juárez Street going south (that's away from City Hall, the big government building by the square) until you reach Agustín Rodríguez Street. Once you are there, take a left and in less than 200 yards, you’ll see the market. It makes up a complete city block along the north side of the banks of the Cuale River (Cuale River Flea Market), also known as the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale. Explore this indoor market with two storeys of vendors, suppliers and other items ranging from pottery, jewelry, embroidered clothing, souvenirs and much more. Bargain hunters, this is the place for you, especially if you're looking for crafts at affordable prices. Check out the second floor for food stands, too.

Read MoreClose

This large flea market is located by the northern shore of the Cuale River, flowing through downtown Puerto Vallarta. It's quite easy to find, too, if you are on the main square. Just walk down Juárez Street going south (that's away from City Hall, the big government building by the square) until you reach Agustín Rodríguez Street. Once you are there, take a left and in less than 200 yards, you’ll see the market. It makes up a complete city block along the north side of the banks of the Cuale River (Cuale River Flea Market), also known as the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale. Explore this indoor market with two storeys of vendors, suppliers and other items ranging from pottery, jewelry, embroidered clothing, souvenirs and much more. Bargain hunters, this is the place for you, especially if you're looking for crafts at affordable prices. Check out the second floor for food stands, too.

Read MoreClose

Our Lady of Guadalupe ParishDistance:6.2kms from Hotel

Year after year, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe invites thousands of Catholics, especially during a 12-day festival called the feast of Guadalupe each December. This is an attraction in Puerto Vallarta that can’t be missed. There are always wonderful activities happening in and around the church. Tour guides come here on a daily basis, ready to share their knowledge on Mexican traditions. The church takes over the Puerto Vallarta skyline in countless postcards as the city's most recognizable and beloved landmark around the world.

Read MoreClose

Year after year, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe invites thousands of Catholics, especially during a 12-day festival called the feast of Guadalupe each December. This is an attraction in Puerto Vallarta that can’t be missed. There are always wonderful activities happening in and around the church. Tour guides come here on a daily basis, ready to share their knowledge on Mexican traditions. The church takes over the Puerto Vallarta skyline in countless postcards as the city's most recognizable and beloved landmark around the world.

Read MoreClose

Museo Manuel LepeDistance:2.8kms from Hotel

Manuel Lepe is known as one of the most prominent and popular artists in this region. Every year he’s celebrated as the Illustrious Son of Puerto Vallarta. Today, a museum run by his wife and daughter exhibits Lepe’s treasured paintings of the region he loved so much. Visitors can view historic documents and purchase souvenirs are available as well.

Read MoreClose

Manuel Lepe is known as one of the most prominent and popular artists in this region. Every year he’s celebrated as the Illustrious Son of Puerto Vallarta. Today, a museum run by his wife and daughter exhibits Lepe’s treasured paintings of the region he loved so much. Visitors can view historic documents and purchase souvenirs are available as well.

Read MoreClose

Mismaloya BeachDistance:14kms from Hotel

Mismaloya takes its name from Nahuatl: [michmaloyan] a "place where they grab fish with their hands" and is a small village that’s located on the coast of the Bahía de Banderas in the Mexican state of Jalisco [Xalixco] "on the surface of the sand." Mismaloya lies on Highway 200, just south of Puerto Vallarta.

Read MoreClose

Mismaloya takes its name from Nahuatl: [michmaloyan] a "place where they grab fish with their hands" and is a small village that’s located on the coast of the Bahía de Banderas in the Mexican state of Jalisco [Xalixco] "on the surface of the sand." Mismaloya lies on Highway 200, just south of Puerto Vallarta.

Read MoreClose

Conchas Chinas BeachDistance:4.6kms from Hotel

Playa Conchas Chinas (Chinese Shells Beach), located in Fraccionamiento Las Amapas, is one of the city’s most secluded beaches. It can be found south of El Púlpito on the south end of Los Muertos Beach in the South Zone. Conchas Chinas Beach is thought of as one of the most gorgeous locations in Puerto Vallarta. Just minutes from the city, this beach lies between forest and mountains, a lovely place colored by blue-green waters and beige sand. Experience the natural pools formed by groups of rocks, try a delicious fried fish, rent boats and water ski. The utter clearness of the water allows you to see the ocean floor and take a look at the different multicolored fish that live there.

Read MoreClose

Playa Conchas Chinas (Chinese Shells Beach), located in Fraccionamiento Las Amapas, is one of the city’s most secluded beaches. It can be found south of El Púlpito on the south end of Los Muertos Beach in the South Zone. Conchas Chinas Beach is thought of as one of the most gorgeous locations in Puerto Vallarta. Just minutes from the city, this beach lies between forest and mountains, a lovely place colored by blue-green waters and beige sand. Experience the natural pools formed by groups of rocks, try a delicious fried fish, rent boats and water ski. The utter clearness of the water allows you to see the ocean floor and take a look at the different multicolored fish that live there.

Read MoreClose

Amapas BeachDistance:6.2kms from Hotel

This is a semi-hidden beach that’s located just south of El Púlpito. Once you arrive at the end of Los Muertos Beach, you’ll see a path that climbs to the top of El Pulpito and then continues down to the beach on the other side. Las Amapas does not have a lot of tourists and offers a more intimate space for family outings or romantic getaways.

Read MoreClose

This is a semi-hidden beach that’s located just south of El Púlpito. Once you arrive at the end of Los Muertos Beach, you’ll see a path that climbs to the top of El Pulpito and then continues down to the beach on the other side. Las Amapas does not have a lot of tourists and offers a more intimate space for family outings or romantic getaways.

Read MoreClose

Zoologico de VallartaDistance:14.6kms from Hotel

In the valley that ends with Mismaloya and Mismaloya beach, you'll find Puerto Vallarta Zoo. It’s an exotic, lush tropical jungle in the village surrounded by the river and mountains. Even though this zoo may not be the most sophisticated, it has a unique style that makes it much more interesting than the sanitized options available in other countries. You'll be able to pet and touch many of the animals, even feeding them with food provided by the zoo.

Read MoreClose

In the valley that ends with Mismaloya and Mismaloya beach, you'll find Puerto Vallarta Zoo. It’s an exotic, lush tropical jungle in the village surrounded by the river and mountains. Even though this zoo may not be the most sophisticated, it has a unique style that makes it much more interesting than the sanitized options available in other countries. You'll be able to pet and touch many of the animals, even feeding them with food provided by the zoo.

Read MoreClose

El Malecon (Seaside Boardwalk)

Distance:2.7kms from Hotel

Travel down a paved walkway along the shore of downtown Puerto Vallarta to enjoy shopping, restaurants and the local Mexican culture. In 2011, the Malecon was completely remodeled is now exclusively for pedestrians. A safe, fun and interesting family excursion awaits you in downtown Vallarta, where you can explore many different attractions and sculptures as well.

Isla Cuale Flea Market

Distance:2.3kms from Hotel

This large flea market is located by the northern shore of the Cuale River, flowing through downtown Puerto Vallarta. It's quite easy to find, too, if you are on the main square. Just walk down Juárez Street going south (that's away from City Hall, the big government building by the square) until you reach Agustín Rodríguez Street. Once you are there, take a left and in less than 200 yards, you’ll see the market. It makes up a complete city block along the north side of the banks of the Cuale River (Cuale River Flea Market), also known as the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale. Explore this indoor market with two storeys of vendors, suppliers and other items ranging from pottery, jewelry, embroidered clothing, souvenirs and much more. Bargain hunters, this is the place for you, especially if you're looking for crafts at affordable prices. Check out the second floor for food stands, too.

Muelle de Playa Los Muertos

Distance:3.2kms from Hotel

Sand lovers will delight in the most popular, best known and the most visited beach in Puerto Vallarta. Now that the pier is finished, this beach is especially popular. Find it south of the Malecon and the Cuale River, between the river and Venustiano Carranza (where you can stop at Daiquiri Dick's) in what is called Romantic Zone.

Marina Vallarta

Distance:6.7kms from Hotel

Located mere minutes away from Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, this residential area contains one of the biggest Latin American marine piers. When you walk down its promenade, you will discover art galleries, cafes and restaurants. You can also see luxury boats, yachts and enjoy an 18-hole golf course.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish

Distance:6.2kms from Hotel

Year after year, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe invites thousands of Catholics, especially during a 12-day festival called the feast of Guadalupe each December. This is an attraction in Puerto Vallarta that can’t be missed. There are always wonderful activities happening in and around the church. Tour guides come here on a daily basis, ready to share their knowledge on Mexican traditions. The church takes over the Puerto Vallarta skyline in countless postcards as the city's most recognizable and beloved landmark around the world.

Mismaloya Beach

Distance:14kms from Hotel

Mismaloya takes its name from Nahuatl: [michmaloyan] a "place where they grab fish with their hands" and is a small village that’s located on the coast of the Bahía de Banderas in the Mexican state of Jalisco [Xalixco] "on the surface of the sand." Mismaloya lies on Highway 200, just south of Puerto Vallarta.

Los Arcos

Distance:6.3kms from Hotel

Almost anywhere in town and just south of the city, you can see some small islands by the edge of the sea in the South Zone. These are what are locally know as "Los Arcos de Mismaloya," the Arches of Mismaloya. Nowadays, they are a very popular day trip destination. Snorkelers, tourists, tour operators and scuba divers regularly visit this place day in and day out. It's very beautiful as a scenic photo-op. Also, it is quite impressive for its natural biodiversity both above and below water. These little islands have tunnels that go through them, which accounts for the name: the arches.

Museo Manuel Lepe

Distance:2.8kms from Hotel

Manuel Lepe is known as one of the most prominent and popular artists in this region. Every year he’s celebrated as the Illustrious Son of Puerto Vallarta. Today, a museum run by his wife and daughter exhibits Lepe’s treasured paintings of the region he loved so much. Visitors can view historic documents and purchase souvenirs are available as well.

vallarta botanical gardens

Distance:26.4kms from Hotel

Although this attraction is a bit out of town, south of Boca de Tomatlán and Mismaloya on the way to El Tuito, it’s worth the trip to experience these botanical gardens. There are a variety of routes with varying degrees of difficulty you can walk. Plus, you’ll see an orchid garden, enjoy a dip in the small river that runs through the property and, if you wish, visit one of the best restaurants in the area (including Puerto Vallarta) at Hacienda de Oro.

Pilitas

Distance:3.2kms from Hotel

Las Pilitas (Baptismal Font) is a sea-level rock formation that can be found on the south end of Old Vallarta's Los Muertos Beach, near the base of El Pulpito. This location was where the "El Caballito de Mar" sculpture (The Seahorse) had originally been located. After disappearing in a storm, a bigger replica was made by the artist and put on the Malecon. The original statue has since been recovered and now stands at Las Pilitas, too. A side street on Olas Altas (Old Vallarta) is named after this natural landmark.

Conchas Chinas Beach

Distance:4.6kms from Hotel

Playa Conchas Chinas (Chinese Shells Beach), located in Fraccionamiento Las Amapas, is one of the city’s most secluded beaches. It can be found south of El Púlpito on the south end of Los Muertos Beach in the South Zone. Conchas Chinas Beach is thought of as one of the most gorgeous locations in Puerto Vallarta. Just minutes from the city, this beach lies between forest and mountains, a lovely place colored by blue-green waters and beige sand. Experience the natural pools formed by groups of rocks, try a delicious fried fish, rent boats and water ski. The utter clearness of the water allows you to see the ocean floor and take a look at the different multicolored fish that live there.

Amapas Beach

Distance:6.2kms from Hotel

This is a semi-hidden beach that’s located just south of El Púlpito. Once you arrive at the end of Los Muertos Beach, you’ll see a path that climbs to the top of El Pulpito and then continues down to the beach on the other side. Las Amapas does not have a lot of tourists and offers a more intimate space for family outings or romantic getaways.

Plaza de Armas

Distance:1.7kms from Hotel

The Plaza de la Presidencia or Plaza de Armas is the city's main plaza, the official center of political and cultural activities in Puerto Vallarta. This is where you can enjoy public concerts at the bandstand (kiosko) or at the amphitheater across the street by the Arches, the amphitheater and the malecon. There is a large, two-storey building that houses government offices (and the Vallarta tourist office), plus a large outdoor terrace with a fountain. Also, you'll see a mural painted by Manuel Lepe, one of the most famous local artists. This plaza can be found between the Puerto Vallarta Malecon at Los Arcos Amphitheatre and the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.

Old Town Farmers Market "Tianguis Cultural"

Distance:2.7kms from Hotel

This market has become one of the best weekend attractions in Puerto Vallarta. Locals and expats come here to purchase and have a taste of fresh local produce. It’s a producer only market, which means all vendors must make, bake or grow the items they sell here. Open every Saturday from the beginning of November to May between 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., it is now relocated at Parque Hidalgo, 3 blocks away from teh hotel.

Aquaventuras Park Vallarta

Distance:20kms from Hotel

You'll discover Aquaventuras Park on the way in to Nuevo Vallarta. It's a great place to chill out, float around in fresh water and do nothing except relax. The family can zip down the water slides, play in the park or just enjoy the sun. There are ten waterslides of various styles (more for adults than children) and a special area for kids, where the water is not that deep and the games more low-key. Feel free to enjoy the sea lion show or just swim with the dolphins.

Zoologico de Vallarta

Distance:14.6kms from Hotel

In the valley that ends with Mismaloya and Mismaloya beach, you'll find Puerto Vallarta Zoo. It’s an exotic, lush tropical jungle in the village surrounded by the river and mountains. Even though this zoo may not be the most sophisticated, it has a unique style that makes it much more interesting than the sanitized options available in other countries. You'll be able to pet and touch many of the animals, even feeding them with food provided by the zoo.